Thursday, April 7, 2011

The Beatitudes

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Even though it is hazy this morning, it is a bit cool, but definitely higher humidity than yesterday. Puffy white clouds and a light breeze are making for a delightful day.

Yesterday, I was determined to take a walk, and enjoy the coolness of the air, while I could, so I walked along the sidewalk at the park, and noticed the water has gone down already. I could see the bottom through the murky water, which did not stop a large turtle from swimming along.  I think all turtles are vegetarians, but the soft shelled ones must eat the greenery growing under water and on top, like hydrilla. Whatever they eat, it really agrees with them, because they grow so big!

I also stopped and watched a very large great blue heron wade and slowly move along, keeping his head down. The water was pouring out of the pipe leading from Arrow Lake to the canal, so perhaps he was looking for a fish to come shooting out. I didn't see any ibis, and that is very unusual. The usual turtle was sunning on a dead log, and an anhinga came along and perched beside it. God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Luke 6:20
Then Jesus turned to his disciples and said,

God blesses you who are poor,
for the Kingdom of God is given to you.
God blesses you who are hungry now,
for you will be satisfied.
God blesses you who weep now,
for the time will come when you will laugh with joy.
God blesses you who are hated and excluded
and mocked and cursed
because you are identified with me, the Son of Man.

When this happens, rejoice! Yes, leap for joy, for a great reward awaits you in heaven. And, remember, the ancient prophets were also treated that way by your ancestors....

Love for Enemies
 

But if you are willing to listen, I say, love your enemies. Do good to those who hate you. Pray for the happiness of those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you. If someone slaps you on the cheek, turn the other cheek. If someone demands your coat, offer your shirt also. Give what you have to anyone who asks you for it; and when things are taken away from you, don't try to get them back. Do to others as you would like them to do for you.

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs, Amaryllis


Great Adventure #4 coming Saturday! Stay tuned!